Preparing for Family Camping Getaways

Here in Northern California we had a huge spring rainstorm roll through the area, this weekend. I’d hate to get caught camping in one of those, but I know that near-perfect springtime camping weather is right around the corner, so it’s time to make sure we’ve got all of our gear organized and ready to go.

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Camping Food Safety

Food safety is an often overlooked discipline when it comes to family camping in the backcountry. At least until somebody gets sick, that is. Most food poisoning is caused by bacteria, which is in the soil, air, water, and the foods we bring camping with us. In small quantities these bacteria are harmless, but when conditions are right the bacteria can rapidly increase in number to a point where they can cause illness.

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10 Outdoor Headlamps for Under $30

Headlamps are the new flashlights and if you haven’t tried one out yet, then you are really missing out. Headlamps allow you to keep your hands free, if you are carrying gear or trying to hammer a tent stake, which is a real plus. Also, the light is shining in the right direction whether you are walking or reading a book inside the tent. Best of all, competition continues to bring the price down and the features up, giving you more for your money. Here are ten headlamps for under $30 that can replace that old flashlight.

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What to do if your spouse won’t camp

Let’s face it, spending a weekend in the woods with no showers or heat or big comfy bed is not everybody’s idea of a good time. Many parents today were not raised with a strong outdoor experience, themselves, which makes it difficult for them to appreciate the experience now. So what can you do if your spouse is not interested in camping?

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Hybrid Down Bag for Camping and the Home

Downlite sleeping bagA few weeks ago I talked about the little Kotey bag that I carry in my daypack. On the opposite end of the scale is our big, puffy, rectangular Downliteâ„¢ sleeping bag. The Downlite is one of the most flexible pieces of gear that we own, because it zips completely open into a down comforter which is great around the campfire and even on our bed. What other piece of camping gear gets regular use in your home?

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Quick Takes